--> ABSTRACT: Statistical Analysis of Automated Coal-Ash Fusion Temperatures for West Virginia Coals, by Gayle H. McColloch, Jr., Kenneth C. Ashton, Carl J. Smith, and Michael E. Hohn; #91041 (2010)

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Statistical Analysis of Automated Coal-Ash Fusion Temperatures for West Virginia Coals

Gayle H. McColloch, Jr., Kenneth C. Ashton, Carl J. Smith, Michael E. Hohn

During 1984-1986, the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey dramatically expanded its coal-ash fusion data base, and conducted statistical studies of the new data. More, better distributed data were obtained for the Survey's computerized data base, which is used in (1) the coal-quality exploration program, (2) mapping, and (3) estimating ash fusion temperature based on ash and sulfur in coal. The new data, obtained using an automated ash fusion analyzer, were subjected to extensive analysis.

Along with realizing the major goals of the study, we have three additional findings. (1) Interpolating between reducing-atmosphere softening temperature and reducing-atmosphere fluid temperature has yielded a reliable equation to predict the reducing-atmosphere hemispherical temperature of West Virginia coals. This parameter is missing from many older analyses. (2) Regardless of the care taken, human factors figure heavily in the accuracy of all ash fusion tests performed in nonautomated ash fusion analyses. (3) We have developed improved estimation equations using machine-generated ash fusion analyses that will be more reliable than earlier equations that used a combination of human operator and machine analyses.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91041©1987 AAPG Eastern Section Meeting, Columbus, Ohio, October 7-10, 1987.